It was a moment that saw Gilberto Silva write his name into the Champions League history books.
When Arsenal took on PSV on September 25, 2002, Arsene Wenger’s side were expecting a tough night against the Dutch outfit. But from the moment Gilberto struck after just 20.7 seconds, the Gunners were in cruise control.
They went on to win 4-0 at the PSV Stadion, with Gilberto’s volley from Thierry Henry’s cross breaking the previous record for the fastest-ever Champions League goal, which had been set by Alessandro Del Piero for Juventus against Manchester United.
The Brazilian’s record has gone on to be beaten since, but it’s still a moment he cherishes when he looks back on his long and illustrious career.
“It was a very happy moment,” he said. “When I knew it was the fastest goal in the competition’s history, I was amazed by the news. After, it was broken and it broke my heart a little bit!”
So now, 20 years on, where are the Arsenal starting XI that featured in that historic match? GOAL takes a look..
